ERB Approves K2.45 Billion in Energy Licences and Construction Permits

The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has approved 29 licence applications and five construction permits valued at K2.45 billion (US$130 million), signalling continued investor confidence in Zambia's energy sector.

The approvals, granted by the Board's Licensing Committee on February 13, 2026, span three energy sub-sectors: petroleum, electricity, and renewable energy.

ERB Public Relations Manager Namukolo Kasumpa said the approved licences include 12 for the manufacture, supply, installation and maintenance of renewable energy generating equipment, 12 for the distribution, importation and exportation of petroleum products, one for combined generation, distribution and supply of electricity, and four for the importation, packaging, blending, distribution and export of lubricants. A further 137 road tank vehicles were licensed to support petroleum transportation.

The five construction permits cover a 60 MWp Solar Photovoltaic Power Plant with a 5 MW/20 MWh Battery Energy Storage System in Choma District, three petroleum retail service stations, and a 960,000-litre fuel depot in Barlastone, Lusaka. Additionally, 11 LPG retail kiosks and eight newly constructed service stations were authorised to commence operations.

Kasumpa said the approvals are aimed at stimulating economic activity through increased capital investment and improved infrastructure, while reinforcing regulatory certainty and policy stability for investors. She added that the ERB would continue to facilitate responsible sector growth through timely regulatory decisions that promote competition, innovation and long-term sustainability in Zambia's energy markets.